Paul Cherukuri , who became Rice University’s inaugural vice president for innovation three years ago, is leaving the institution at the end of next month to become the University of Virginia’s first chief innovation officer.
Cherukuri has been with Rice University since June 2014, when he joined as a research scientist. From 2016 to 2022, he was executive director of the Institute of Biosciences and Bioengineering.
In August 2022, he was promoted to chief innovation officer and vice president for innovation. Under his leadership, the university has launched programmes such as the accelerator Rice Biotech Launch Pad, and the biotech venture studio RBL.
He also led the creation of a $12.5 million partnership with Woodside Energy, creating the climate tech-focused Woodside-Rice Decarbonization Accelerator.
In February this year, Cherukuri opened the university’s innovation hub Rice Nexus, which provides state-of-the-art facilities to faculty, students, and alumni.
In addition to becoming the University of Virginia’s inaugural chief innovation officer, Cherukuri will also serve as its Donna and Richard Tadler university professor of entrepreneurship.
“The connections between Rice and the University of Virginia are long and dynamic.
“For example, Rice’s first president, Edgar Odell Lovett, a graduate of UVA, and both institutions, deeply rooted in their communities and regions, have been drivers of innovation and progress for over a century and longer.
“I am proud of the relentless innovative spirit we have built for Rice in Houston and around the world. I look forward to bringing new energy and vision to UVA’s efforts in this critical space for our country, its success and future.”
Paul Cherukuri
Cherukuri’s last day as a vice president at Rice will be 30 September.
Rice University is due to launch an international search for his successor in the near future. Adrian Trömel, associate vice president for innovation strategy and investments at Rice, will take on responsibilities in the interim.